28 July 2016

Churches told to be alert but not alarmed after priest’s murder

Church leaders have been told to remain vigilant following the murder in France of Fr Jacques Hamel this week.

The Metropolitan Police have advised those in charge of churches and church projects to "remain alert, but not alarmed".

The force made clear that there is no intelligence to suggest a similar attack in the UK, but said that this was a good opportunity for all to review their security plans.

In a statement, the police said: "The police have been working with church leaders here in the UK to establish a communication network through which reassurance and guidance to the Christian community can be passed.

"This is a terrible tragedy, but we must use it to test our ability to communicate to this wider network and I want to offer the following advice."

The statement announced that the Home Office is running an eight-week scheme for funding to help places of worship put security measures in place.

The statement went on: "I know these are troubling times and it makes sense for all church leaders to review their security plans and to encourage their flock to be vigilant."